When I first went on an OLA trip it was my second semester at Dixie State University and I was not very experienced with the outdoors. I had never been camping really, although I was very comfortable with the outdoors, I have known since a young age that nature is for me and I am for nature, but I was never really permitted to explore that. When I went on that trip it was a big step for me since my parents didn’t really approve but I felt adult enough to just jump in and do it anyway. I absolutely loved it. We spent four days in Zion National Park and I still remember it very fondly. We would look outside and see the stars blanketing the skies, when it rained the clouds hung low to the sandstone cliffs, it was very spiritually connecting for me. So when I found out about more trips with OLA I readily signed up. Attending these trips and learning more about the environment is actually what inspired me to change my major to Biology with an emphasis in natural science. Soon enough I was blessed enough to be offered a position as the OLA intern and at first I was apprehensive, I didn’t know if I’d be a good fit for it or if I’d be able to assist in the best way possible. As most things with life though, I jumped in to see what would happen. So far, I think I’m doing alright, I’m still learning everyday, but I feel so blessed to be one of the few people who get to say that they absolutely love what they do. I am so thankful to OLA for providing me with these amazing opportunities to grow as well as learn about our public lands, conservation efforts, as well as myself.